Shakib Al Hasan selected for New Zealand tour despite not wanting to travel

In what can be a significant development, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have named an uncertain Shakib Al Hasan in the 18-member squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand. The Kiwis are set to host the Bangla Tigers in a two-match Test series, starting from January 2 at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. It was earlier reported that Shakib has made himself available for the tour.

The all-rounder even conveyed the same to BCB but his request was informal. The same was confirmed by BCB president Nazmul Hassan on Saturday (December 4). While Bangladesh have also included left-arm pacer Shoriful Islam, Nayeem Hasan and Rejaur Rahman Raja, who are part of the 19-member squad in the ongoing second Test against Pakistan, have been dropped.

Shakib Al Hasan told us unofficially. We told him to inform us officially: BCB President

“He hasn’t informed us officially. He told us unofficially. We told him to inform us officially. He has to give a reason. Shakib contributes with either bat or ball. He strengthens the team combination. There’s no substitute for Shakib,” Hassan said in a statement.

Speaking of the other players in the squad, Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam are the first-choice openers and the duo has the onus to make a mark. The squad also includes the T20 specialist Mohammad Naim, who has played only six first-class matches in his career.

With Mahmudullah being retired and Tamim Iqbal ruled out due to a thumb injury, Captain Mominul Haque would be hopeful that Shakib makes himself as Mushfiqur Rahim is the only other senior player in the squad. Among the fast bowlers, Taskin Ahmed is the likely attack.

The others are Khaled Ahmed and Ebadat Hossain, who are currently playing the second Test in Dhaka, as well as Abu Jayed, Shohidul Islam and Shoriful, the only left-armer.

Bangladesh’s squad for two-match Test series against New Zealand: Mominul Haque (Captain), Shadman Islam, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Liton Kumer Das, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Yasir Ali Rabbi, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Abu Jayed Chowdhury Rahi, Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Shohidul Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Md Naim Sheikh